SC gets tough on Cow vigilantism issue, asks Centre, states not to protect it

The Supreme Court of India on Friday asked Centre and States to file an affidavit on the issue of cow vigilantism and asked them not to protect any kind of vigilantism.

A bench headed by Justice Dipak Misra was informed by the Centre that law and order is a state subject but it does not support any kind of vigilantism in the country.

"You say that law and order is a state subject and states are taking actions as per law. You don't protect any kind of vigilantism," the bench, also comprising A M Khanwilkar and M M Shantanagoudar, said.

Saying that it does not support any kind of violence in the name of cow, the government of India told the apex court, “no vigilante group has any place in the country as per the procedure of law.”

Counsel appearing for BJP-ruled Gujarat and Jharkhand where violent incidents related to cow vigilantism have taken place lately submitted in the court that “appropriate action has been taken against those involved in violent activities related to cow vigilantism.”

The bench recorded their submission and asked the Centre and other states to file their report regarding the violent incidents in four weeks’ time and posted the matter for further hearing on September 6.

The issues of violence and atrocities against Dalits and minorities by cow vigilantes have stormed the nation since the BJP govt came in power.

Recently, Prime Minister Modi putting the onus on states asked them to ensure that no violence should be allowed in the name of cow vigilantism and strict action should be taken against those involved in such incidents.

(With agency inputs)